Porto Mayor Pedro Duarte announced on Friday that he will not grant exceptions to the ban on heavy goods vehicles using the Inner Beltway (Via de Cintura Interna or VCI) if they are not destined for Porto or Vila Nova de Gaia. Duarte stated that granting individual exemptions would undermine the measure and that he must prioritize the public interest over specific economic constraints.
Porto Mayor refuses exceptions to VCI truck ban
Friday, 25 September 2026AI summary
Context & Explainers
Pedro Duarte is the Mayor of Porto, elected in the most recent local elections. He leads the city's municipal government and is responsible for implementing local policies, such as the recent initiative to provide free public transport for residents.
The VCI (Via de Cintura Interna) is a major inner-ring motorway that circles the city of Porto. Starting 15 September, heavy goods vehicles are prohibited from using this road during daytime hours on weekdays to reduce traffic congestion and improve safety in the city center.
